Dissimilar Metal Corrosion

Dissimilar metal corrosion is as natural as aging. Simply put, it is an electrochemical process that destroys metal, reducing its thickness and strength. This kind of metal corrosion is also strongly linked to cracking paint; either condition may precipitate the other.

When dissimilar metals are in contact with an electrolyte - usually water from rain or condensation, or from sources like airborne particulates, dirt, and oil, an electrochemical reaction takes place that permits electron flow from one dissimilar metal to the other. By-products of corrosion - sulfates, oxides, or hydroxides - take the place of the original material, although these byproducts may be carried away by the electrolyte.

Dissimilar metals such as steel and aluminum are most prone to corrosion, however corrosion can also occur in the presence of only one type of metal as well.

To help protect your investments, we have developed a major breakthrough in corrosion prevention of dissimilar metals, it's a product that we call Eck®

Steel and Aluminum react or corrode when they come in contact with each other. This reaction causes paint to blister, crack and spider web. Eck® prevents this reaction from happening. In 1997, Eck® was awarded US Process Patent # 5,744,197 and Canadian Patent # 2,213,065 for preventing corrosion between dissimilar metals.